Where We're Headed

Raising the minimum wage

The cost of living has increased significantly over the past five years but the federal minimum wage hasn't. Raising it to $10.10 would benefit 28 million Americans, helping them better provide for themselves and their families. Right now, too many people are working harder but falling further behind just trying to make ends meet. We believe an honest day's work deserves a fair day's pay and will continue to make the case for a higher minimum wage.

Modernizing overtime protections

The Fair Labor Standards Act's wage protections are intended to apply to most workers, including overtime pay for more than 40 hours of work per week. Unfortunately, the threshold for who qualifies for overtime pay hasn't kept up with our modern economy. Under the current rules, you may not qualify for overtime even if you're under the poverty line. That's why we're modernizing the rules to reward hard work and give more people a better chance of realizing their dreams.

Investing in apprenticeships

Registered apprenticeship programs are a win-win: they train workers for in-demand fields while providing a paycheck, and they help companies develop a skilled, loyal workforce. But apprenticeships have been undervalued in America for several decades and a popular myth persists that they're only for traditional occupations. New grants will help us invest in and grow apprenticeships across the country.

Reinvigorating the workforce system

In recent years, more than 20 million people annually have turned to federal programs for basic education, job training and employment services. The recently signed Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is a critical step toward helping workers and employers succeed in the 21st century economy. Together with our federal partners and communities nationwide, we will lead the road ahead.

Ensuring fair pay and safe workplaces

The federal government shouldn't do business with companies that violate labor laws and exploit their workers. If you work hard, take responsibility and play by the rules, you deserve a fair shot at getting ahead. This is true for both workers and employers. We'll be implementing a new executive order designed to protect employees, responsible businesses and taxpayers.